Relevant Church

So the 30-day challenge has come to an end and suffice it say, it’s been an interesting journey. I’m not speaking so much about the overall craziness we’ve had over this thing, but more about my own personal journey and learnings. I have always been one who loves to learn new things. As a child I was always taking something apart to learn how it was put together and was asking questions to know why it worked and what its usefulness was. To this day I love learning new things. But when it comes to my own personal learnings, I’ve never been as excited to figure things out. There is something about the vulnerability that comes with taking yourself apart (or allowing someone else to) to find out how you’re put together and facing your shortcomings, broken pieces and imperfections. Honestly, who really wants to do that?

That’s really what this challenge has been about though. It’s not been easy for everyone, including myself. So, here are some things I’ve learned on this journey:

I’ve learned my top emotional needs (a few of which are affection, attractive spouse, honesty & openness). I stepped into this part a little reluctantly because, let’s be honest, most guys don’t want to talk about emotional needs. I’m glad I did it though, because so many things make sense for me now. Such as why I’m driven to act certain ways in relationships, why I react to statements or situations the way I do, why some attitudes annoy me and why past relationships just didn’t work out.

I’ve learned that great relationships take a whole lot of work…more than I think I am willing to put in sometimes. Mostly because I’m selfish a lot. And with that, I’ve learned that I am scared to death of marriage.

I’ve learned that I need to better clarify for my relationships where the line is of going too far physically…and be mature enough to fight like crazy to not go over that line while having the right accountability to help.

I’ve learned, once again, that I am not perfect…nor will I ever be. Which, for a perfectionist is a tough lesson.

Finally, I’ve learned that a lifestyle of saving sex for marriage is not easy…sometimes I hate waiting. But, I’ve learned that sex is most rewarding, unmatched, and truly amazing when experienced in the right context.

These are just a few of the things I’ve learned. My hope is that you have learned some things about yourself as well over these past 30 days. My hope is that you will continue on this journey, continue learning, and turn 30 days into a lifestyle.